Service recovers lost, stolen or missing infrared cameras

FLIR Systems Inc on June 17 announced the introduction of ThermaTrak, an exclusive high-tech service to locate missing or stolen infrared cameras and thermal imagers. ThermaTrak from FLIR, developed with GadgetTrak, employs recovery software that pinpoints the geographic location of the lost, stolen or missing infrared camera. Additionally, the ThermaTrak software embedded in the camera tracks the IP address, hostname and even the Internet service provider (ISP) being used after the IR camera has gone missing or been stolen and is connected to the Internet.

“This is the first-ever theft tracking system for IR cameras. We are very excited to announce our exclusive agreement with GadgetTrak to offer this new recovery technology customized to FLIR IR cameras,” said Tom Scanlon, vice president for FLIR. “The affordability and protection is exactly what our end-users want.”

ThermaTrak is also used for asset management when multiple cameras are deployed in the field. With tracking activated, each time a camera is connected to a computer with internet access, an email is sent with a link to an updated location report.

“ThermaTrak has several unique abilities that you will not find elsewhere”, said Ken Westin, founder and CEO of GadgetTrak, commenting on the partnership with FLIR. “ThermaTrak software leverages our patented theft recovery system for use with IR cameras and discretely contacts the owner in the event it is lost or stolen. Data is delivered to ThermaTrak and a report is generated with the time, username, computer name, internal network address, location, and other data that relates to the device’s connection. All images, location and network data are sent to the device owner.”

In the case of theft, law enforcement agencies are able to find out the suspect’s name, address and phone number through ISP information.

ThermaTrak requires an upgrade to the IR camera and is available with a standalone subscription or through FLIR’s extended warranty. FLIR IR cameras run from under $3,000 to $400,000 per unit, so the security and peace of mind now offered by ThermaTrak is a big plus.